A Bluetooth DAC amplifier from Astell&Kern. TWS (True Wireless Stereo) is all the rage these days, but I’ve been moving away from TWS because I often dropped my Sony WF-1000XM4 when wearing it, and lost one earbud within six months of buying it. I have my favorite wireless headphones, and I don’t feel embarrassed because I feel like more people are wearing them on the streets than before, but they are bulky and a bit muggy in the middle of summer. That’s why I’m looking at these dongle-type amplifiers.
<Sound quality>
I used SHURE SE846 (2nd gen.) with balanced connection.
Clear resolution that allows you to distinguish the individual sounds of the ensemble, flat characteristics from top to bottom without any strange exaggeration or emphasis, and no problems with sound quality when listening mainly outdoors when going out. The same goes for the Fiio BTR7, and even when comparing it to the Fiio BTR7 in a quiet home inside, I actually can’t tell the difference at first listen.
However, I thought it would be even more so when listening outside when going out, but it’s strange that the difference seems more pronounced.
I wasn’t able to compare the connections one after another outdoors, but the impression is clearly different.
The separation of sounds is characteristic of the AK. In comparison, the Fiio sounds a little more cohesive, which may be why it’s said to be “powerful.”
In a noisy environment, sound quality with high resolution and good separation makes it easier to hear music without having to turn up the volume unnecessarily. In this sense, AK HB1 seems to be one step above BTR7.
<Connectivity>
Both are good with no interruptions when using LDAC on the subway during rush hour. However, I have not tried settings that prioritize sound quality.
<Usability>
HB1 is definitely easier to use. Both require a long press to turn the power on and off, but the BTR7’s button is so small and difficult to press, and is also close to adjacent buttons. HB1’s button is just under 1cm wide and sticks out better than BTR7’s, making it very easy to press. Speaking of HB1, the design omits an LCD display and relies on buttons and LEDs, so I think the physical ease of use was well thought out.
<Wired connection>
The sound of each instrument may be slightly thicker, but there is no big difference. You will probably be more satisfied if you use a dedicated wired device.
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